2016 Vauxhall Astra 1.6L Petrol · SA16 XHB

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance history reveals a trend of reactive rather than proactive upkeep. While the most recent test in March 2026 at 117,082 miles passed, the car returned with advisories for both front tyres being near the legal limit and showing uneven wear. This mirrors a long-standing pattern where components are only addressed after they reach failure or critical limits, suggesting that the owner delays routine maintenance until the MOT interval. The mileage accumulation is consistent with a ten-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 11,700 miles per annum. There is a notable increase in usage between February 2022 (68,287 miles) and February 2024 (94,680 miles), where the car covered over 26,000 miles in just two years. This period of heavy use correlates with the surge in mechanical failures recorded during that window, specifically the degradation of steering components and lighting systems. Since then, the mileage has stabilized to a more typical 7000 miles per annual test. A buyer should focus their inspection on the steering and suspension geometry. The tester previously flagged an offside inner steering linkage ball joint and an offside front track rod end with play between 2024 and 2025. Although these were reportedly repaired, the recurring edge wear on front tyres noted in 2023 and 2026 indicates a persistent alignment issue or worn suspension bushes that have not been fully rectified. Electrical and visibility-related items also require closer scrutiny. The tyre pressure monitoring system was a recurring failure, failing in both 2024 and 2025, which may indicate a faulty sensor rather than a simple pressure issue. The deterioration of the registration plates noted in 2025 suggests a lack of attention to basic exterior cosmetic and safety equipment. Given the 2021 advisory regarding brake discs and pads, a physical check of the current friction material and disc thickness is essential to ensure they have not reached the end of their life during the high-mileage years.